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HERSCHEL Hardshell Pro Collection [Interview]
After the long pause of the COVID era, we all came back with a craving — not just for movement, but for the kind of travel that makes you feel alive again. Getting out there isn’t just a luxury anymore; it feels like a necessity for the modern soul. But as any seasoned traveler knows, finding the right companion for the journey is a whole story in itself — and no, we’re not talking about people.
We mean luggage.
We mean luggage.
Because what’s the point of exploring the world if your gear is holding you back? Between flimsy shells, broken wheels, and bags that look like they’ve seen better decades, the hunt for a solid, stylish, and functional hardshell suitcase is… real. That’s why we couldn’t ignore it when a brand like Herschel — known for blending utility with design — stepped into the hardshell game.
So this time they present the Hardshell Pro Collection.
We sat down with Jon Warren, VP of Creative at Herschel, to talk about what it takes to build a travel piece that can truly go the distance. From the design challenges of creating hard luggage as a tech-gear brand, to how modern airports and shifting travel habits are shaping the products of tomorrow — he gave us the full download. Dive into the interview below.
HERSCHEL Hardshell Pro Collection [Interview]
After the long pause of the COVID era, we all came back with a craving — not just for movement, but for the kind of travel that makes you feel alive again. Getting out there isn’t just a luxury anymore; it feels like a necessity for the modern soul. But as any seasoned traveler knows, finding the right companion for the journey is a whole story in itself — and no, we’re not talking about people.
We mean luggage.
We mean luggage.
Because what’s the point of exploring the world if your gear is holding you back? Between flimsy shells, broken wheels, and bags that look like they’ve seen better decades, the hunt for a solid, stylish, and functional hardshell suitcase is… real. That’s why we couldn’t ignore it when a brand like Herschel — known for blending utility with design — stepped into the hardshell game.
So this time they present the Hardshell Pro Collection.
We sat down with Jon Warren, VP of Creative at Herschel, to talk about what it takes to build a travel piece that can truly go the distance. From the design challenges of creating hard luggage as a tech-gear brand, to how modern airports and shifting travel habits are shaping the products of tomorrow — he gave us the full download. Dive into the interview below.
So this time they present the Hardshell Pro Collection.
We sat down with Jon Warren, VP of Creative at Herschel, to talk about what it takes to build a travel piece that can truly go the distance. From the design challenges of creating hard luggage as a tech-gear brand, to how modern airports and shifting travel habits are shaping the products of tomorrow — he gave us the full download. Dive into the interview below.
[When you started working on the Hardshell Pro collection, did you identify a specific market need for it? Or what was initially the idea to go in this direction, since not many technical apparel & gear brands do that, which makes it a unique approach…]
Jon Warren: The idea for the Hardshell Pro actually came from a pretty simple moment — we were sitting outside a hotel in LA, watching people arrive. Most families had this chaotic mix of bags, trying to juggle everything. Then one family showed up with matching hardshell luggage, stacked it up, and just rolled right in. It looked so smooth, and we thought, why isn’t that the norm?
With the Pro, it really came from our own travel needs. We’re on the road a lot for work and wanted something that made it easier to get to our laptop, passport, cables — all the stuff you reach for constantly. So we focused on building something super functional, tough, and easy to move with — plus it’s made from 70% recycled polycarbonate, which we’re proud of.
At the end of the day, it’s about making travel easier and feeling a bit more put-together while you’re doing it.
Jon Warren: The idea for the Hardshell Pro actually came from a pretty simple moment — we were sitting outside a hotel in LA, watching people arrive. Most families had this chaotic mix of bags, trying to juggle everything. Then one family showed up with matching hardshell luggage, stacked it up, and just rolled right in. It looked so smooth, and we thought, why isn’t that the norm?
With the Pro, it really came from our own travel needs. We’re on the road a lot for work and wanted something that made it easier to get to our laptop, passport, cables — all the stuff you reach for constantly. So we focused on building something super functional, tough, and easy to move with — plus it’s made from 70% recycled polycarbonate, which we’re proud of.
At the end of the day, it’s about making travel easier and feeling a bit more put-together while you’re doing it.
[Are there any specific insights one should know about how modern airports and travel infrastructure work, to design such a product in the best way possible?]
J.W. : Designing luggage today really means understanding how people actually move through airports — because travel’s changed a lot.
Between security, tight connections, self check-ins, overhead bin space… all of that affects how a bag should work.
Quick access is a big one for us. No one wants to dig through their whole suitcase just to grab a laptop at TSA or a passport at the gate.
That’s why we built the front pocket on the Hardshell Pro — it keeps your essentials right where you need them.
And with how massive airports are now, smooth rolling is key. We went with inset Hinomoto wheels that glide super quietly and can take a beating.
End of the day, it’s about building something that keeps up with how people travel now — and makes the whole experience a bit less hectic.
J.W. : Designing luggage today really means understanding how people actually move through airports — because travel’s changed a lot.
Between security, tight connections, self check-ins, overhead bin space… all of that affects how a bag should work.
Quick access is a big one for us. No one wants to dig through their whole suitcase just to grab a laptop at TSA or a passport at the gate.
That’s why we built the front pocket on the Hardshell Pro — it keeps your essentials right where you need them.
And with how massive airports are now, smooth rolling is key. We went with inset Hinomoto wheels that glide super quietly and can take a beating.
End of the day, it’s about building something that keeps up with how people travel now — and makes the whole experience a bit less hectic.
[Material science — can you share insights behind the material choice for the collection? And was it difficult for you to balance the weight/durability ratio?]
J.W. : We put a lot of thought into material choice for this collection. The shell is made from 70% recycled polycarbonate — specifically, repurposed road barricade material — which gives us a strong, impact-resistant base while staying true to our sustainability goals. Balancing weight and durability is always a challenge in hardshell design, but polycarbonate gives us that sweet spot: it’s tough enough to handle the knocks and drops of travel, but still lightweight enough to move with ease. We also use a tonal stripe liner made from 100% recycled polyester, sourced from post-consumer water bottles — so every part of the bag is working toward a lighter footprint without compromising performance.
[Wheels — probably the most sensitive part for all luggage makers, and a totally new element for most apparel/gear designers to work on. What was your approach here in finding the best solution, considering the high wear and tear on this component?]
J.W. : We wanted to work with the best, so we went to the best: Hinomoto wheels.
J.W. : We put a lot of thought into material choice for this collection. The shell is made from 70% recycled polycarbonate — specifically, repurposed road barricade material — which gives us a strong, impact-resistant base while staying true to our sustainability goals. Balancing weight and durability is always a challenge in hardshell design, but polycarbonate gives us that sweet spot: it’s tough enough to handle the knocks and drops of travel, but still lightweight enough to move with ease. We also use a tonal stripe liner made from 100% recycled polyester, sourced from post-consumer water bottles — so every part of the bag is working toward a lighter footprint without compromising performance.
[Wheels — probably the most sensitive part for all luggage makers, and a totally new element for most apparel/gear designers to work on. What was your approach here in finding the best solution, considering the high wear and tear on this component?]
J.W. : We wanted to work with the best, so we went to the best: Hinomoto wheels.
[Material science — can you share insights behind the material choice for the collection? And was it difficult for you to balance the weight/durability ratio?]
J.W. : We put a lot of thought into material choice for this collection. The shell is made from 70% recycled polycarbonate — specifically, repurposed road barricade material — which gives us a strong, impact-resistant base while staying true to our sustainability goals. Balancing weight and durability is always a challenge in hardshell design, but polycarbonate gives us that sweet spot: it’s tough enough to handle the knocks and drops of travel, but still lightweight enough to move with ease. We also use a tonal stripe liner made from 100% recycled polyester, sourced from post-consumer water bottles — so every part of the bag is working toward a lighter footprint without compromising performance.
[Wheels — probably the most sensitive part for all luggage makers, and a totally new element for most apparel/gear designers to work on. What was your approach here in finding the best solution, considering the high wear and tear on this component?]
J.W. : We wanted to work with the best, so we went to the best: Hinomoto wheels.
Known for their exceptional durability, smoothness, and reliability, Hinomoto wheels are made with precision-engineered components that allow them to glide effortlessly — even on rough surfaces. Their design minimizes vibration and noise, ensuring a quiet, smooth roll. Plus, they’re built to last, handling the wear and tear of constant travel without losing performance. In short, Hinomoto wheels offer the perfect balance of functionality and longevity, making them the top choice for high-quality luggage.
[It’s so cool to see that the Tech Division collection also integrates with Hardshell Pro. Was there research and a specific approach behind the handle’s durability, especially to connect it with bags — another sensitive element in luggage design?]
J.W. : We spent hundreds of days testing, adjusting, and running drop and durability tests to ensure the handle meets the highest standards. We knew the handle was a crucial part of luggage design, especially when connecting our bags with trolley sleeves to the Hardshell Pro. It had to be both durable and reliable, able to handle the demands of constant travel.
So, we put it through rigorous testing to ensure it could stand up to anything travelers throw at it, while still offering smooth, easy operation.
[It’s so cool to see that the Tech Division collection also integrates with Hardshell Pro. Was there research and a specific approach behind the handle’s durability, especially to connect it with bags — another sensitive element in luggage design?]
J.W. : We spent hundreds of days testing, adjusting, and running drop and durability tests to ensure the handle meets the highest standards. We knew the handle was a crucial part of luggage design, especially when connecting our bags with trolley sleeves to the Hardshell Pro. It had to be both durable and reliable, able to handle the demands of constant travel.
So, we put it through rigorous testing to ensure it could stand up to anything travelers throw at it, while still offering smooth, easy operation.
Known for their exceptional durability, smoothness, and reliability, Hinomoto wheels are made with precision-engineered components that allow them to glide effortlessly — even on rough surfaces. Their design minimizes vibration and noise, ensuring a quiet, smooth roll. Plus, they’re built to last, handling the wear and tear of constant travel without losing performance. In short, Hinomoto wheels offer the perfect balance of functionality and longevity, making them the top choice for high-quality luggage.
[It’s so cool to see that the Tech Division collection also integrates with Hardshell Pro. Was there research and a specific approach behind the handle’s durability, especially to connect it with bags — another sensitive element in luggage design?]
J.W. : We spent hundreds of days testing, adjusting, and running drop and durability tests to ensure the handle meets the highest standards. We knew the handle was a crucial part of luggage design, especially when connecting our bags with trolley sleeves to the Hardshell Pro. It had to be both durable and reliable, able to handle the demands of constant travel.
So, we put it through rigorous testing to ensure it could stand up to anything travelers throw at it, while still offering smooth, easy operation.
[When you conducted market/user-case research, what were the most common functions people required for carry-ons — and what were the weirdest ones?]
J.W. : Durability: Travelers frequently cited the importance of luggage that can withstand rough handling and frequent use. This led us to select materials like 70% recycled polycarbonate for its strength and resilience.
Smooth Mobility: Many users expressed frustration with stiff or noisy wheels. We addressed this by incorporating high-quality, precision-engineered Hinomoto wheels, known for their smoothness and durability.
Organization: The desire for better organization within carry-ons was a recurring theme. To meet this, we designed the Hardshell Pro with a split design and convenient spine pocket, allowing for easy packing and access to essentials.
[What is the most difficult part of making hardshell luggage that every designer should know when exploring this direction?]
J.W. : Durability: Travelers frequently cited the importance of luggage that can withstand rough handling and frequent use. This led us to select materials like 70% recycled polycarbonate for its strength and resilience.
Smooth Mobility: Many users expressed frustration with stiff or noisy wheels. We addressed this by incorporating high-quality, precision-engineered Hinomoto wheels, known for their smoothness and durability.
Organization: The desire for better organization within carry-ons was a recurring theme. To meet this, we designed the Hardshell Pro with a split design and convenient spine pocket, allowing for easy packing and access to essentials.
[What is the most difficult part of making hardshell luggage that every designer should know when exploring this direction?]
J.W. : Honestly? Everything. Making hardshell luggage is a complex process, and there are a lot of tough calls to make. Choosing the right material is a big one — it has to be eco-friendly, but also strong enough to handle the abuse luggage goes through during travel. Then there’s making sure the wheels roll smoothly, and figuring out which tech features actually add value and which ones are just nice to have.
The hardest part is really balancing the price point with durability, functionality, and features that actually matter to travelers. Like with all our designs, we overanalyze, test like crazy, and make thoughtful decisions about what’s essential — and what’s just a nice extra.
[What does the future look like for Hardshell Pro luggage?]
J.W. : The future of Hardshell Pro luggage is all about evolution.
As travel changes, technology advances, and materials and wheels improve, we’ll continue to adapt and redesign. We’re never truly done with design — we’re just done for today. We’ll keep listening to customer feedback and incorporating insights from our wear testing, making tweaks to improve the product with each iteration.
The hardest part is really balancing the price point with durability, functionality, and features that actually matter to travelers. Like with all our designs, we overanalyze, test like crazy, and make thoughtful decisions about what’s essential — and what’s just a nice extra.
[What does the future look like for Hardshell Pro luggage?]
J.W. : The future of Hardshell Pro luggage is all about evolution.
As travel changes, technology advances, and materials and wheels improve, we’ll continue to adapt and redesign. We’re never truly done with design — we’re just done for today. We’ll keep listening to customer feedback and incorporating insights from our wear testing, making tweaks to improve the product with each iteration.
After chatting with Jon, one thing’s clear — the future of hardshell luggage is looking a lot more exciting (and way better designed). It’s refreshing to see brands like Herschel stepping into this space with intention, pushing the boundaries of what travel gear can be.
If this interview is any sign of what’s to come, we’re in for some seriously cool drops ahead.
If this interview is any sign of what’s to come, we’re in for some seriously cool drops ahead.
The new hardshell collection is already live — you can check it out now on Herschel’s official website. Time to gear up.
Article prepared by TECHUNTER Magazine.
Answers: Jon Warren [HERSCHEL, VP of Creative].
Questions, words: Alexander Zabelin [TECHUNTER, Chief Editor].
Images: HERSCHEL.
Article prepared by TECHUNTER Magazine.
Answers: Jon Warren [HERSCHEL, VP of Creative].
Questions, words: Alexander Zabelin [TECHUNTER, Chief Editor].
Images: HERSCHEL.
